Tampa Investment Fraud Lawyer
Investment fraud allegations can be devastating for professionals, investors, and business owners alike. These charges often arise after complex financial dealings and can lead to both state and federal prosecutions. Convictions can bring prison sentences, massive fines, and permanent damage to your personal and professional reputation. If you are under investigation or facing charges, a skilled Tampa investment fraud lawyer at Scriven Law, P.A. can help you understand the allegations, protect your rights, and build a powerful defense strategy to preserve your freedom and future.
Understanding Investment Fraud
Investment fraud occurs when someone intentionally misrepresents or withholds key information about an investment opportunity to convince others to part with their money. Prosecutors often claim that the accused misled investors, falsified records, or made deceptive promises about profits and risk. These cases are typically complex, involving extensive documentation, multiple investors, and overlapping state and federal laws.
Commonly prosecuted under federal statutes such as the Securities Exchange Act or the Wire Fraud Statute, investment fraud cases are aggressively pursued by agencies like the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Department of Justice (DOJ). A conviction can result in years in prison, restitution orders, forfeiture of assets, and ongoing financial monitoring.
Common Types of Investment Fraud
Investment fraud can occur in many different forms, from small private investment disputes to large-scale national schemes. Some of the most frequently charged forms include:
- Ponzi schemes — using funds from new investors to pay returns to earlier investors
- Pyramid schemes — recruiting investors through promises of high returns tied to recruitment rather than actual investment performance
- Broker misconduct — unauthorized trading, excessive commissions, or failure to disclose conflicts of interest
- Market manipulation — artificially inflating or deflating stock prices for personal gain
- Misrepresentation of investment risk — promising guaranteed returns on inherently risky investments
- Embezzlement or misappropriation of investor funds
- Failure to register securities or fraudulent sale of unregistered investments
Because these cases often involve complex transactions and multiple parties, even legitimate business activities can come under scrutiny. An experienced defense lawyer can identify where prosecutors are misinterpreting evidence or overreaching in their allegations.
Penalties for Investment Fraud
The consequences of an investment fraud conviction are severe. Defendants may face not only criminal penalties but also civil enforcement actions from regulatory agencies or investor lawsuits. Penalties can include:
- Federal prison sentences of up to 20 years or more
- Fines and restitution in the millions
- Forfeiture of property and assets linked to alleged fraud
- Permanent bans from working in financial or investment industries
- Reputational harm and loss of professional licenses
Beyond these penalties, defendants may also face lifetime challenges in rebuilding their careers and reputations. Engaging a qualified attorney early in the process is essential to protect against these long-term consequences.
Defending Against Investment Fraud Allegations
Defending against investment fraud requires a deep understanding of financial markets, securities regulations, and criminal procedure. At Scriven Law, P.A., we thoroughly investigate each case to uncover inconsistencies in the prosecution’s evidence and expose flaws in their assumptions. Potential defenses may include:
• Lack of intent to defraud — showing that any misstatements or omissions were honest mistakes
• Good faith reliance on professional advisors or accountants
• Insufficient or circumstantial evidence of criminal conduct
• Improper or unconstitutional investigative tactics used by authorities
Our approach emphasizes proactive case management, negotiating where appropriate but always preparing for trial. We work tirelessly to protect your rights, reputation, and financial stability every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Investment Fraud
Can I be charged with investment fraud if I didn’t personally profit?
Yes. Prosecutors only need to show that a scheme existed and that you participated knowingly, even if you didn’t gain financially. Having an attorney review the specifics of your involvement can help clarify your legal exposure.
What’s the difference between investment fraud and securities fraud?
While both involve deceptive investment practices, securities fraud usually focuses on violations related to publicly traded companies or regulated securities markets. Investment fraud can include a broader range of private or informal investment opportunities.
What should I do if I’m contacted by investigators?
Do not speak to investigators or regulators without legal counsel present. Anything you say can be used against you later. Contact a Tampa investment fraud attorney immediately to ensure your rights are protected during the investigation.
Contact a Tampa Investment Fraud Lawyer Today
Facing an investment fraud allegation can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to face it alone. The experienced team at Scriven Law, P.A. is ready to help you respond effectively, challenge the government’s case, and work toward the best possible resolution. A knowledgeable Tampa investment fraud lawyer will take the time to understand your situation, review the evidence, and build a defense strategy tailored to your goals.
Call 813-226-8522 or visit our contact page to schedule a confidential consultation today. Scriven Law, P.A. is committed to protecting your rights and helping you move forward with confidence.
